Festival of New Writing in Aberdeen and North-East Scotland

06-Sep-2011

New Words 2011

8–29 September 2011

New Words is North-East Scotland's innovative festival exploring the spoken and written word in performance, with events taking place in venues in Aberdeen and towns and villages throughout Aberdeenshire.

This year's highlights include two collaborations with local music societies who are beginning their autumn seasons with events that combine poetry and music. In Huntly, Music Centeral features Paulina Vanderbilt launching a collection of poetry written in response to her journey along the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela. The poems will be interspersed with medieval music associated with route performed by the Artisans, an early music group from London, and the programme also includes local writer Lucy Aykroyd reflecting on her own pilgrimage to Santiago.

In contrast, Inverurie Music brings a programme of poetry, jazz and improvised music from the St Andrews based group Trio Verso.

Aberdeen publisher Malfranteaux Concepts has put together a carefully considered set of ten poems by ten poets to mark the tenth anniversary of the events of 11 September 2001. These will be presented in two different events: an outdoor commemoration on the anniversary itself and a performance with music later in the month to end the festival on a contemplative note.

New Words 2011 is noticeably smaller than the festival has been in previous years. Some of our partner organisations have been unable to put on events this year due to funding and other constraints, but despite the difficulties a core of promoters expressed a determination to continue, and they have assembled a festival programme to be proud of. While the number of events may be reduced, we are sure the quality will be as high as ever. Prepare to be entertained, challenged and stimulated!

Most events are modestly priced — some are free — and we avoid clashing events so you can come to as many as you choose. Browse the Event Calendar, be adventurous, visit venues you have never been to before, and find out why those who have discovered the festival keep coming back for more!